Hi everyone
My name is Sam. I posted a couple of weeks ago in the ask the nurses section as I was struggling with the wait for a diagnosis after finding a crease in one breast particularly because my mum died just 3 years ago of metastatic breast cancer aged 64 and my gran died in 2002 of the same at 78. I am 42.
I got my diagnosis yesterday. I have stage 2 breast cancer in both breasts. One tumour is around 3cm on the left, the other is a 7cm area peppered with small tumours on the right. The plan is for a double mastectomy in 2-3 weeks. No radiotherapy is planned but there may be chemo depending on the lymph biopsies they will do during surgery and the tests on the tumours they will remove.
They gave me options for breast reconstruction but I am not comfortable with either and I am considering going flat.
My BC nurse was lovely and supportive and my consultant was clear and understanding. But I am devastated. I was up much of the night unable to sleep with worry and stress. They can’t tell me if it has spread until they have done the lymph and tumour tests although my mum was not given the option of surgery as hers had already spread too far.
I have two girls 8 and 4 years old and I am trying to be ‘normal’ for them. My husband is being great as are my two youngers sisters. I am off work today. My boss is very supportive.
I am trying to be positive but the shock of getting this diagnosis is beating me to it at the moment.
Love to all who are going through this x
Hi Sam,
so sorry to read about your diagnosis. Considering the family history it is understandable that you are concerned about achieving the best outcome for you.
It is so difficult at this time to make decisions for the future and I respect your considerations about considering going flat after your operation. Have they discussed with you the options, which could be available for you, should you change your mind in the future?
Hugs
Sue H-S
Hi Sam, and welcome to this very exclusive club…which no one wants to be in. I can understand your feelings all too well, as can every woman on here. So, my dear, you are not alone. This is the place for support on your journey. I love the way you have become involved in your treatment. I think it does help you to feel more in control, because from now on the procedures, which are to extend your life, will be done to you. However, your success is your teams success, and they want only the best for you. In order to do this your multidisciplinary team need to get all your medical info to plan your medical plan. Your team includes your nurse, surgeon, oncologist, radiographer etc. I also had a plastic surgeon and a pharmacist as I was put on a trial drug. Unfortunately this does take about a week, and the waiting is just horrible. I kept reminding myself better safe and survive, than sorry. I had full lymph node clearance, which was more painful than the Lumpectomy itself. I tried to keep busy by down loading info leaflets from this site ready for my meetings. Arming myself, I think, for the fight ahead. I began to eat more healthily, and also to exercise. I did some shopping in readiness for my op. Button front pjs, Paraban free toiletries and make up. The nights were the worst , but this help line is wonderful. I am wishing you all the best for the future. Please know that we are here for you,
. X